January 26, 2018 by The Eastchester Review

Eastchester REVIEW THE

January 26, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 4 | www.eastchesterreview.com

Dems look to revive gun, immigration bills By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

RIVALRY RENEWED Sean Donnellan attempts a jumpshot during Eastchester’s 72-58 victory over rival Tuckahoe on Jan. 19. Donnellan had 13 points in the Eagles’ win. For story, see page 15. Photo/Mike Smith

Boykin announces BOL committee chairmanships By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Newly elected Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin has assigned committee chairmanship positions to members on board. On Jan. 17, Boykin, a White Plains Democrat, announced the leadership positions for each committee for the 2018-2019 legislative term. “In order for a legislative body to be robust and effective, all legislators must be engaged and accountable,” Boykin said in a release. “In determining the membership of each of these committees, my aim was to match the experience and skill sets of individual legislators with the mission

and objective of their committee assignments.” According to the Westchester County Charter, the Board of Legislators, BOL, must maintain two specific committees, the Budget and Appropriations and the Legislation committees. The BOL’s chairperson determines other additional committees and their chairmanships. Boykin has assigned legislators Catherine Borgia to the Budget and Appropriations Committee, Virginia Perez to the Legislation Committee, Lyndon Williams to the Law and Major Contracts Committee, and newly elected Legislator Christopher Johnson to the Appointments Committee. Other newly elected legisla-

tors Damon Maher, Kitley Covill and Nancy Barr have been assigned to chair the Labor and Housing Committee, Social Services Committee and the Environment, Health and Energy Committee, respectively. Republicans David Tubiolo has been assigned to the Seniors and Constituents Committee, Margaret Cunzio to the Public Safety Committee, and Jim Maisano to Intergovernmental Services Committee. Lastly, Legislator Mike Kaplowitz has been designated to the Parks, Planning and Economic Development Committee, and Majority Whip MaryJane Shimsky will chair the Public Works Committee. For the 2018-2019 legislative

Under a new Democratic regime, legislators will reincarnate two vetoed bills, including a piece of controversial gun legislation, that were nixed under former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican. The legislative agenda on Jan. 22 will feature the reintroduction of a bill to ban gun shows on county owned property that was vetoed by Astorino last year, after being passed by Democrats on the Board of Legislators. Specifically, the bill seeks to eliminate the possibility of hosting gun shows at the Westchester County Center, which Democrats say promotes a toxic gun culture in the county. While current County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, has already signed an executive order banning the gun shows—a reinstatement of a previous ban that lapsed under Astorino—unlike the order, the passage of a more formal piece of legislation would permanently ban the shows in the future. In tandem with a bill to ban gun shows, Democrats will also reintroduce a county immigration bill that would limit the amount of information that the county shares with the federal government.

This bill was also introduced and passed last year, but was eventually vetoed by Astorino who said it would hamper the efforts of county law enforcement. Both bills are being revisited by a new Democratic majority with an extra advantage of three seats over last year’s Board of Legislators makeup. Currently, Democrats outnumber Republicans 12-5, giving them a supermajority, in addition to the support of Latimer, who unseated Astorino in November last year. In addition to both bills, Democrats will also push two bills that expand paid sick leave countywide—companies with five or more employees would be required to provide at least 40 hours of paid sick leave—as well as a bill that would ban employers in the county from asking how much prospective employees made at a previous job. These bills will mark the start of a reinvigorated progressive agenda from Latimer and the Board of Legislators, who recently elected a new majority leader, Ben Boykin, a White Plains Democrat, to replace the previous chair, Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, in a divisive nomination process. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin has assigned legislators to a number of county committees for the 2018-2019 legislative term. File photo

term, committee meetings will he held at various times on Mondays and Tuesdays. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

With a new Democratic majority, legislators will look to resurrect bills that had been vetoed under a previous Republican administration. File photo

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County DA ends bail for misdemeanor cases By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Westchester County prosecutors will stop requesting bail for most misdemeanor cases in order to end unnecessary incarceration for those that are financially poor. On Jan. 22, Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino Jr. announced that the county would end the practice, which is already in effect, because it’s “outdated” and “discriminatory” to those that don’t have the financial means to post bail. “No one should languish in jail for a minor offense because of his or her inability to post bail,” Scarpino said in a release. “In most cases, these defendants are not dangerous and have not even been found guilty of a crime. It is unjust and a tremendous waste of

Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino Jr. announced earlier this week that county prosecutors will stop seeking bail in non-violent misdemeanor cases in order avoid incarcerating those that don’t have the financial means to post bail. Photo courtesy westchesterda.net

taxpayer dollars.” According to the DA’s office, the new policy will prevent pros-

ecutors from requesting bail from defendants that have committed non-violent misdemeanors. It will not, however, prevent county prosecutors from seeking bail in cases involving a victim, cases in which the defendant injures a first responder or resists arrest, and cases in which the individual has had prior felony convictions. Additionally, prosecutors can seek bail in cases where the defendant is on parole or probation, or if the individual has a history of warrants or prior bail jumping charges. Scarpino’s new guidelines were praised by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, who said the policy change is “another step forward in our efforts to build a fairer and more equal criminal justice system.” CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

Author to speak at Bronxville school on girl empowerment The Bronxville School will welcome Rachel Simmons – a New York Times best-selling author and co-founder of Girls Leadership, a national nonprofit organization that is dedicated to developing leadership skills in girls – as a guest speaker on Feb. 28. She will share strategies to help young girls move beyond the standards of success to live healthy, happy and fulfilling lives. Thanks to the generous support of the Bronxville School Foundation, the district has partnered with Girls Leadership to bring speakers to educate parents, students and faculty on practical strategies for young women to develop the self-advocacy skills necessary for true leadership. “We are pleased to continue this important conversation in Bronxville,” said Dr. Mara Ko-

Contributed photo

etke, director of Curriculum and Instruction. “Leadership is one of the four dispositions of the Bronxville Promise, and we feel strongly that empowering our girls to embrace the skills of leadership is central to our mission.” Simmons will address students and faculty members during the school day, and parents and community members at 7 p.m. at the Bronxville School auditorium. The event, which is generously sponsored by the Bronxville School Foundation and PTA B*Well Committee, coincides with Simmons’ new book release, “Enough As She Is.” The event is free, but community members are encouraged to register by visiting rachelsimmons.com/tour. For more information on Girls Leadership, visit girlsleadership. org. (Submitted)

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What’s going on... Eastchester Public Library

ing Nurse Service of New York.

Adult Coloring Group On Monday, Jan. 29 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Coloring has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Come and be creative and meet new friends, all while listening to tranquil music. Coloring sheets and materials will be provided.

LEGO Club For more information on hours and programs, visit eastchesterlibrary.org.

Book Discussion and Signing with therapist Robert Bernstein On Saturday, Jan. 27 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Local author and educational therapist Rob Bernstein will discuss his new book, “Uniquely Normal: Tapping the Reservoir of Normalcy to Treat Autism.” Bernstein is an educational therapist who treats autistic children and young adults at his practice in Dobbs Ferry. He advocates a cutting-edge approach that works with autistic people “on their terms, and allow(s) them to lead.” In his 2017 Best Books Award Winner, Bernstein has found a different approach based on cognition thinking in helping people of all ages with autism spectrum disorder. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is not required.

Computer Coding in Scratch for Gaming Starting Monday, Feb. 5. This is a series of four classes for grades 3–5. Sign up online at eastchesterlibrary.org for the entire series of dates: Mondays, Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join the library for a new series of STEAM programs. Learning the basics of how to code in Scratch, a fun but educational programming language to create simple games and animations. Please bring a laptop fully charged with you. Space is limited. Online registration is required, and will open on Monday, Jan. 29 at 9 a.m. For more information, contact Teresa Chang at 721-8105 or tchang@wlsmail.org.

Bronxville Public Library

For more information on hours and programs, visit bronxvillelibrary.org.

Midterm Week in the Teen Room Through Monday, Jan. 29. It’s mandatory quiet week in the Teen Room just in time for midterms. Head to the Teen Room for some quiet studying, snacks and games for a break. Snacks will be provided, please no outside food. For grades 6–12 only.

Babies on the Loose: Playdate On Monday, Jan. 29 from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. A fun free play for babies using the library’s tunnels, scarves, instruments, and more. Recommended for babies ages 6 months to 24 months old.

Social Needlers On Monday, Jan. 29 and Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 11 a.m. to noon. Join the library for a knitting and crochet hour every Monday and Wednesday. Participants can chat and socialize while making beautiful items which will be donated to the Visit-

On Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Build your own LEGO masterpiece to display in the Children’s Room. This month’s theme is awesome snow sleds. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Tots of Fun: Playdate On Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A fun free play for toddlers using the library’s tunnels, scarves, instruments, and more. Open to toddlers age 2 years old.

Book Donation Drop-Off On Thursday, Feb. 1 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring in your gently used books for the ongoing library book sale. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Bronxville Library. Limit is 10 books per patron. Books will be screened for suitability before being accepted. Here are a few things to consider: Books must be in good condition; No mildew, musty odors, stained pages, torn covers or pages, broken spines, excessive writing or highlighting; No textbooks, encyclopedias, magazines or workbooks, law or medical books; No books on technology, science or travel that are more than two years old.

Mock SAT Exam with Revolution Prep On Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get ready for the SAT exam with Revolution Prep by taking a mock SAT exam. Register by visiting bronxvillelibrary.org or revolutionprep.com/partners/practice-exams/school/137573. You can also contact Calvin Fortenberryof Revolution Prep at 516-366-1624 or calvin.fortenberry@revolutionprep.com. Upon registration, your Revolution Prep liaison will schedule a score report review at a time convenient for you. During the session, they will breakdown your child’s score to understand areas of strength and weakness and develop a custom preparation plan. Be sure to bring pencils, a snack, water and an approved calculator.

Relax with Reiki On Saturday, Feb. 3 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Join practitioner Andrea Deierlein for a conversation about Reiki, a natural healing practice that promotes relaxation and wellness. Whether you are in perfect health or have an illness, Reiki can help restore balance to body, mind and spirit. Registration is required by calling 337-7680 ext. 24 or emailing bronxvillelibrary@gmail.com.

Tuckahoe Public Library For more information on hours and programs, visit tuckahoe.com/library.

How to Prevent Gum Disease On Monday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m. Want to know how to keep your gums healthy and disease-free? Dr. Biagio Iannace of Westchester Periodontics will discuss the major causes of gum disease and how it can contribute to other health issues. Several methods to prevent the onset of gum disease will be

reviewed. There will be a Q & A session after the talk. Registration is required by calling the library at 961-2121.

One-On-One Computer Classes On Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. These are individualized classes for an optimized learning experience. Registration is required by calling the library at 961-2121.

AARP Tax Aide Program Starting Fridays, Feb. 2 through April 13 from noon to 2 p.m. The Tuckahoe Public Library presents the AARP Tax Aide Program. No appointment necessary; first come, first served. For more information, call the library at 961-2121.

Community news Eastchester Little League - TEB Softball Online registration is now open for the following programs in 2018: Winter Instructional Clinic (i.e. hitting, throwing, fielding, etc.); Winter TBall Clinic; and Winter Pitching Clinics (Baseball and Softball). Registration is also now open for the 2018 spring season (tee ball, baseball and softball). There is a new “Challenger” Division to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4 to 12, to enjoy the game of baseball and softball. Please note that the winter clinics will be starting on Sunday, Jan. 7, so please register today. There is a separate winter registration for Tee Ball players (ages 4 and 5). If you are unsure of your child’s “playing age,” there is a chart on eastchesterll.org under “Home” and then “Age Determination.” As done last year, there will be player assessments and uniform fittings for the 2018 spring season in February. It is vital that parents register their children for the spring season no later than Feb. 4, so they can be included for the spring. Sign up today by visiting eastchesterll.org and clicking on the “Registrations” tab.

Eastchester schools news Stockings for Soldiers The Eastchester Teachers Association, ETA, is running its annual drive to send filled stockings to soldiers. The ETA is partnering with Homes for

Heroes, the Never Forget Foundation, and the Pearl River American Legion, which will ship and deliver the stockings to soldiers overseas, returning veterans, and to the Montrose VA Hospital. Parents are invited to send in items to help fill almost 200 stockings purchased by the ETA. Donated items can be given to homeroom teachers in a bag, envelope or box to the attention of Clare Delongchamp, Eastchester Middle School, or they can be dropped off at the Easchester High School Security Desk. Items which can be included in stockings: tuna packs; breakfast bars/power bars; trail mix/ dried fruits/nuts/sunflower seeds; microwaveable food; cereal in single packs; snacks/candy/ gum; Q-tips; powdered drinks: iced tea, lemonade, fruit punch; toilet paper/baby wipes; toothbrushes/toothpaste/dental floss; Vaseline; foot powder; eye drops/nose drops; sunscreen; socks/gloves; playing cards/crossword puzzles; magazines/books; DVDs/new CDs; iTunes gift cards; AT&T phone cards; Best Buy gift cards; Christmas candy and decorations; room fresheners. Do not put in anything that can crumble, break or spill. Please do not include any pork products. It is also nice to add a cheerful holiday card.

County news Golf course closings The six county-owned golf courses closed for the season after play on Sunday, Dec. 31. The courses are Dunwoodie, 231-3490, and Sprain Lake, 231-3481, both in Yonkers; Maple Moor, 995-9200, in White Plains; Mohansic, 862-5283, in Yorktown Heights; Saxon Woods, 231-3461, in Scarsdale; and Hudson Hills, 864-3000, in Ossining. The courses are expected to reopen in March, weather and conditions permitting. The exact date will be announced. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.

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BHS junior earns prestigious Girl Scout award Bronxville High School junior Kirsten Ircha has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor that a Girl Scout can earn after years of service, dedication and hard work. As a member of the Girl Scout’s Bronxville Service Unit 726, it took Ircha more than 100 hours over the course of a year to complete her extensive Gold Award project, “Healing Through Fellowship, Feelings and Food,” which has made a difference in her community. For her project, which required a sustainable response to an issue or cause, she chose to focus on The Reformed Church of Bronxville’s Coming Home Program, and raise money and awareness on issues that affect women after incarceration, specifically emotional healing and hunger. The Coming Home Program is a re-entry program that is designed to help women rebuild their lives after being incarcerated. “It is a nurturing, supportive program that results in these women being on their way towards rehabilitation, employment and personal healing,” Ircha said. As part of her project, Ircha raised money and served meals at the Coming Home Program’s weekly community event that fed more than 40 people. She also provided support to the women and sent them home with weekly meal and care packages, which contained inspirational messages like “Believe in yourself.” In addition, Ircha raised awareness of the issue by serving as chairperson of the Coming Home Club of the Bronxville Youth Council at the high school and communicating with directors of other similar re-entry programs in the area. Ircha said the women in the program appreciated her assistance and have expressed that her presence at the meetings and during the community meals helped them feel a sense of youthfulness and hope. “The most meaningful experience for me during my Gold Award project was seeing the women graduate [from the program] with their families and friends present,” Ircha said. “Each of the six women fulfilled all the requirements of gradu-

Bronxville High School junior Kirsten Ircha has been given the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor that a Girl Scout can earn after years of service, dedication and hard work. Photo courtesy Bronxville school district

ation, and it took a lot of time and discipline to achieve this. At graduation, several of the women mentioned in their speeches how touched they were to receive the meals my troop and I worked so hard to prepare, and they especially loved the touch of the inspirational gift bags.” Ircha – whose family has been generously involved in a variety of community service projects – said she is grateful to be able to contribute in her community and make a positive and meaningful impact on someone else’s life. As one of the newest Gold Award recipients of the Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, she will be honored at an annual ceremony and luncheon in March. Besides her involvement with the Girl Scouts, Ircha serves as vice president of the Bronxville High School’s Habitat for Hu-

manity Club and a member of the Bronxville High School Orchestra Tri-M Music Honor Society. She’s a member of the varsity track and field team, plays handbells at The Reformed Church of Bronxville and has participated in Ukrainian dance throughout her youth and high school career. She also runs the annual village of Bronxville Toys for Tots toy drive, which her older brother Steven and older sister Sasha founded a few years ago. Over the last two summers, Ircha has interned at the Lupus Research Alliance and helped plan the annual New York Jets Kickoff Luncheon, which raises money for the Lupus Research Alliance and Jets Foundation. In addition, she is taking a demanding course load consisting of Advanced Placement and honors-level classes. (Submitted)

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6 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • January 26, 2018

Eastchester REVIEW THE

P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000

SUNY Purchase student receives

scholarship of a lifetime

Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com General Assignment | Taylor Brown ext. 30, taylor@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com

Quincy Phillips with his grandmother. Photo courtesy purchase.edu Advertising Coordinator | Nancy Kaplan ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writers James Pero, Franco Fino Staff Photographer Jen Parente Columnists Mary Marvin, Richard Forliano

Letters The community’s opinion matters. If you have a view to express, write a letter to the editor by email to chris@hometwn.com. Please include a phone number and name for verification purposes. Community Events If you have an event you would like to share with the community, send it to news@hometwn.com. Delivery For home delivery or to subsribe, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Classifieds & Legals To post your notices or listings, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Postmaster Send address changes to The Eastchester Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Visit us online www.eastchesterreview.com

Follow us on Twitter, @eastchesterview Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/eastchesterreview The Eastchester Review is published weekly by Home Town Media Group for an annual subscription of $45. Application to mail at the periodicals postage rate is approved at White Plains, N.Y., 10601. Periodicals postage paid at White Plains and additional mailing offices.

By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Quincy Phillips, a freshman at SUNY Purchase College, is pursuing his bachelor’s degree debt-free thanks to a full-tuition four-year scholarship he received from “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart. Now in the second semester of his freshman year, Phillips said he loves the environment of SUNY Purchase, and the passion students demonstrate for the arts. Prior to SUNY Purchase, Phillips attended Summit Academy Charter School in Red Hook, Brooklyn, where he was one of 41 students to receive a fouryear scholarship to any college in New York state through DeGeneres’ show and Walmart. Natasha Campbell, executive director and founder of Summit Academy, said the scholarships have changed her students’ lives. Campbell first made DeGeneres aware of the students in Red Hook in November 2016. “I had sent an email to the show talking about the extraordinary staff and children we had,” Campbell said. “[I talked] about how much we had done despite the challenges the kids face.” According to the 2014 Existing Conditions and Brownfields Analysis, a document that helps community organizations plan revitalization projects, Red Hook has a poverty rate of more than 40 percent. In the email, Campbell also mentioned how the students at Summit Academy exemplified what it meant to persevere.

“They were the complete opposite of what [you] think of when you hear about children in urban communities,” she said. “They were college bound, and that wasn’t the norm for this community.” In February 2017, DeGeneres invited Cheryl Swift, principal at Summit Academy, and Campbell to come on the show, where DeGeneres and Walmart gifted the school a check for $25,000. Campbell said the donation went towards supporting Summit Academy’s College & Career Readiness Program, a program that works to better prepare students for the future. “It helped with all of the preparatory programs that would ensure that our seniors graduated and enrolled into college,” Campbell said. Campbell said that the Summit Academy Class of 2016 had a 90 percent rate of college enrollment, and the Class of 2017 had

92 percent of students enrolled in college, with another 5 percent attending college in January. Two weeks after Swift and Campbell’s appearance on DeGeneres’ show, the senior Class of 2017 at Summit Academy’s were flown out to Los Angeles to come on the show. “I remember going on the show and one of the Ellen producers was like, ‘We really want you to be on stage for Ellen to interview you,’” Phillips said. “I was like, ‘No, this can’t be happening.’” After being interviewed with a few other of his classmates, the students gathered for a group photo, where DeGeneres announced the scholarships. “We’ve never done anything this big before, “DeGeneres said. DeGeneres said she had reached out to Walmart, who agreed to partner with the show to give scholarships to the students. The gift totaled $1.6 million. Campbell said this opportunity has made it so the students don’t have to carry the burden of financial debt. According to studentloanhero.com, a website dedicated to helping students manage and repay their student loans, “the average Class of 2016 graduate has $37,172 in student loan debt.” Campbell said this gift also showed the students that people believe in their potential and are willing to invest in their futures. While Phillips is studying for his degree in visual arts, he says that the scholarship has made him more appreciative of the things he has. “I count my blessing and my opportunities, and I take advantage of them,” he said. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

Quincy Phillips, a freshman at SUNY Purchase College, who is a recipient of a full scholarship through “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart.

The 41 students from the Class of 2017 at Summit Academy Charter School receive full scholarships to any college in New York state through “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart. Photos courtesy Michael Rozman

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Latimer sets collegial tone, stresses bipartisanship By LINNET TSE Contributor

Look at this cool, little fellow! Tom is super snuggly, sometimes playful and mischievous. When he is sitting there gazing at you, he is hoping you will follow him and give him some attention—which he likes very much. Black and white with super soft short hair, Tom has beautiful, unique markings. He has been around other cats and dogs, and has gotten along well. You will be a good match for Tom if you are looking for an easy-going, adaptable, snuggly buddy. He will enjoy a house with other cats, kids, dogs where he can go with the flow. Tom is in excellent health, up-to-date with all vaccinations and microchipped. His adoption donation is $100. To meet Tom, contact Pet Rescue at nypetrescue@gmail.com or visit NY-PetRescue.org. (Submitted)

Addressing a packed audience at the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit’s Jan. 16 breakfast program, new Westchester County Executive George Latimer spoke of “setting a different tone with a different set of philosophies.” His early actions fulfilled campaign promises and were symbolic of the collegial tone he wants to achieve. In his first day in office, Latimer, a Democrat, issued an executive order that will keep his and his predecessor’s names off county signs, sending the message that county assets belong to the people of Westchester, and not to the county executive. A second executive order, a “good neighbor” policy, will guarantee that local municipalities are consulted on significant projects involving county land. His third executive order banned gun shows from county-owned property. Latimer’s six issue-based transition committees—health, social services, criminal justice, economic development, operations services, and administrative services—also demonstrates his commitment to listen and work collaboratively. Committees have solicited input from county residents, giving them the opportunity to help shape public policy and identify the new administration’s priorities. He anticipates that the committees’ recommendations will be released by the end of the month. Contrasting his philosophy with that of his predecessor, Latimer said he strongly believes that “government has a valid role to play in our everyday lives.” Latimer acknowledged the county’s high property taxes, but challenged the audience to consider the value of services we receive: “What is the value of public schools in society? What is the value of local services?” Latimer anticipates that the tax changes that eliminate the deductibility of state and local taxes will put tremendous pressure on county and local governments and school districts, and will require a serious dialogue about the level of the services provided by these entities. After seven years of flat tax levies under his prede-

Westchester County Executive George Latimer speaks at the latest Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit breakfast program on Jan. 16. Photo/John Gitlitz

cessor, Latimer also questions the financial health of the county. He has asked New York State Controller Thomas DiNapoli to send a team to conduct a review of the policies and practices employed in Westchester County finances. Latimer firmly holds the belief that problems can be solved by working together, across the aisle, and looks forward to a collaborative relationship with the county Legislature. In response to questions from the audience, Latimer noted that he will be making some staffing changes over the next few months in the county boards and commissions, including the Human Rights Commission. Latimer reported that the Board of Legislators will be revisiting plans for the privatization of Westchester County Airport, which he believes merits a public policy discussion. Latimer openly questions whether the county should be giving up the decision-making authority for the airport in exchange for financial compensation. Latimer also noted that the Board of Legislators will be revisiting the immigration protection law they enacted last year.

Latimer anticipates that they will come up with a plan that “passes muster with the advocacy community as well as with the law enforcement community.” Asked about county support of the Army Corp of Engineers’ flood mitigation plan for the village of Mamaroneck, Latimer expressed his view that the county should commit to its piece of the cost in the budget; county commitment is necessary for the state to budget their share. Latimer pledged “110 percent” effort on behalf of the residents of Westchester County, citing a sense of urgency to use the opportunity he’s been given and to use it well. This breakfast forum was hosted by the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit, an informal community council that seeks to make life better for all in the tri-municipal area. Its monthly meetings are held at the Nautilus Diner in Mamaroneck at 7:45 a.m, on the third Tuesday of the month. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, Feb. 13, when the latest plans for Hampshire Country Club will be presented.

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January 26, 2018 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 9

Westchester food bank receives grant from Wells Fargo

From left, Yonathan Whitehouse, Wells Fargo Greater NY regional commercial banker officer; Jean Julien, Yonkers Community Bank branch manager; John Mulvey, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Peg Nolan, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional cmmercial banker officer; Annette Herber, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Leslie Gordon, president and CEO of Food Bank for Westchester; Catherine Strother, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Charlene Carlino, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Deborah Smith, Head of Wells Fargo Foundation for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut; and Melinda White, Greater New York regional commercial banking officer. Contributed photo

Food Bank for Westchester recently received a first-time grant of $10,000 from the Wells Fargo Foundation. These funds will support the Food Bank’s Food Assistance Distribution programs, and will provide more than 23,800 meals to Westchester children and families in need. Additionally, Wells Fargo recently donated 1,296 pounds of food collected through the Wells Fargo nationwide Holiday Food Bank drive. “It is because of our great supporters like the Wells Fargo Foundation that we can continue to address the issue of hunger in our county and help our neighbors who need it the most,” said Leslie Gordon, president & CEO

of Food Bank for Westchester. “We are so thankful to the Wells Fargo Foundation for this firsttime grant and we look forward to continuing a great partnership with them in the future.” Food Bank for Westchester collaborates with a network of member agencies to provide food directly to the men, women and children facing hunger. Food donations are sourced, sorted, inspected, and stored at The Food Bank, and prepared for distribution to its frontline food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters. The Food Bank also provides food directly to the people we serve through a farmers market style distribution called

Mobile Food Pantry. “The reality is that there are many hungry residents who depend on meal programs and food pantries,” said Deborah Smith, head of the Wells Fargo Foundation for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. “Thanks to the dedication of Food Bank of Westchester and its volunteer network, more than 200,000 County residents are receiving the help and nourishment they deserve. We are thrilled to partner with the team in addressing ongoing local needs in Westchester County area.” For more information about the Food Bank for Westchester, visit foodbankforwestchester. org. (Submitted)

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10 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • January 26, 2018

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER X IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF TAX LIENS BYPROCEEDING IN REM PURSUANT TO ARTICLE ELEVEN OF THE REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW

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petition and notice of foreclosure Index No. 2261/17

BY THE TOWN OF EASTCHESTER

X The above-captioned proceeding is hereby commenced to enforce the payment of delinquent taxes or other lawful charges which have accumulated and become liens against certain property. The parcels to which this proceeding applies are identified on Schedule A of this Petition, which is annexed hereto and made a part hereof. This document serves both as a Petition of Foreclosure and Notice of Foreclosure for purposes of proceeding. Effect of filing: All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the real property described in this Petition are hereby notified that the filing of this Petition constitutes the commencement by the Tax District of a proceeding in the Court specified in the caption above to foreclosure each of the tax liens therein described by a foreclosure proceeding in rem. Nature of proceeding: This proceeding is brought against the real property only and is to foreclose the tax liens described in this Petition. No personal Judgment will be entered herein for such taxes or other legal charges or any part thereof. Persons affected: This notice is directed to all persons owning or having or claiming to have an interest in the real property described in this Petition. Such persons are hereby notified further that a duplicate of this Petition has been filed in the office of the Enforcing Officer of the Tax District and will remain open for public inspection up to and including the date specified below as the last day for redemption. Right of redemption: Any person having or claiming to have an interest in any such real property and the legal right thereto may on or before said date redeem the same by paying the amount of all such unpaid tax liens thereon, including all interest and penalties and other legal charges which are included in the lien against such real property, computed to and included the date of redemption. Such payments shall be made payable to Rocco N. Cacciola, Receiver of Taxes, Town of Eastchester, 40 Mill Road, Eastchester, New York 10709; (914) 771-3346. In the event that such taxes are paid by a person other than the record owner of such real property, the person so paying shall be entitled to have the tax liens affected thereby satisfied of record. Last day for redemption: The last day for redemption is hereby fixed as the 30th day of April, 2018. Service of answer: Every person having any right, title or interest in or lien upon any parcel of real property described in this petition may serve a duly verified answer upon the attorney for the Tax District setting forth in detail the nature and amount of his or her interest and any defense or objection to the foreclosure. Such answer must be filed in the Office of the County Clerk and served upon the attorney for the Tax District on or before the date above-mentioned as the last day for redemption. Failure to redeem or answer: In the event of failure to redeem or answer by any person having the right to redeem or answer, such person shall be forever barred and foreclosed of all his or her right, title and interest and equity of redemption in and to the parcel described in this Petition and a judgment in foreclosure may be taken by default. Dated: ______________________ TOWN OF EASTCHESTER

By: Rocco N. Cacciola, Receiver of Taxes STATE OF NEW YORK ) ) ss.: COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER

)

I, Rocco N. Cacciola, being duly sworn, depose and say: I am the Enforcing Officer for the Town of Eastchester. I have read this Petition which I have signed, and I am familiar with its contents. The contents in this Petition are true to the best of my knowledge, based upon the records of the Town of Eastchester. I do not know of any errors or omissions in this Petition.

Rocco N. Cacciola, Receiver of Taxes Sworn before me this day of ,

Notary Public

Christa D’Angelica, Esq. CERUSSI & SPRING Attorneys for Town of Eastchester One North Broadway White Plains, New York 10601-1700 Tel. No. (914) 948-1200

January 26, 2018 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 11

LEGAL NOTICES

12 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • January 26, 2018

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January 26, 2018 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 13

SPORTS

14 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • January 26, 2018

The pre-playoff picture LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

Most area fans might tell you that the most exciting time of any sports season comes between the time that playoff seeds are announced and the day when a Section I champion is finally crowned. To be honest, it’s not hard to understand why; simply earning a postseason berth is a big deal for a lot of programs, and every team—even those with lower seeds—comes into the playoffs confident that they can put together an inspired stretch that will see them emerge as champions. But as someone who covers the day-to-day happenings on the local sports scene, I’d have to disagree. For me, there’s no time quite as exciting—or as important—as the last couple of weeks before the playoffs in the winter season; specifically, right now. Regardless of the sport in question, these few weeks set the

stage for the postseason, both in terms of driving narrative and seeding implications. With a few months under their belt, teams are finally beginning to define themselves establish their programs as contenders or also-rans in the upcoming tournaments. And what better way to find out who you are as a squad than to test yourself against the rest of your league opponents. On Tuesday, there was certainly no shortage of thrilling league contests: Rye’s boys needed a three-point play with 0.4 seconds left on the clock to top rival Pelham; New Rochelle needed a late surge to put White Plains away; and the Huguenots’ next two league opponents, Mount Vernon and Scarsdale, were locked in an epic struggle that saw the perennial Class AA favorite Knights escape with a 72-68 victory. And it’s not just games on the boys’ end, or basketball at all for that matter. On Jan. 19, girls’ hoopsters from Eastchester and Harrison added another chapter to their recent rivalry, with the Eagles edging the visiting Hus-

kies in a nail biter. Harrison won’t have to wait too long for a shot at redemption, however, as the two clubs will lock horns again on Feb. 6 in a potential playoff preview. And that’s what I love about this stretch of the regular season; how a team fares over the final few weeks of the schedule can be telling. Does a particular squad have a knack for late game heroics? Is a program’s young nucleus starting to gel just in time for a deep tournament run? Does a coach need to look to the bench to find some sort of spark? Those are the questions we start to ask right now, and even though it might be a few weeks before we get a definitive answer, this is the time when the puzzle pieces are starting to fit together and the bigger picture is starting to come into focus. So don’t wait until the first round of the playoffs to start cheering on your teams; this is where the magic starts.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

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LIVE MIKE! Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary Follow @eastchesterview for Mike’s live, in-game action updates

New Rochelle’s Jaylen Mention beats Pat Wynne to the hoop on Jan. 23. New Rochelle topped White Plains 77-59 in an important league contest. Photo/Mike Smith

SPORTS

January 26, 2018 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 15

Eagles top Tigers in rivalry game boys basketball league

EASTCHESTER 72 TUCKAHOE 58 EASTCHESTER HS

1/18/18

Game Notes: • Grant DelVecchio and Sean Donnellan both had 13 points for Eastchester • Malik Moore-Crooks led all scorers with 33 • The Eagles surged in the 2nd half to top the Tigers By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor For two quarters of the Jan. 19 basketball game between Eastchester and Tuckahoe, the two crosstown foes traded buckets and scoring runs, pushing the pace in a fast, frenetic contest in front of a packed house at Eastchester. Unfortunately for the short-handed Tigers, however, that tempo ultimately proved unsustainable, as the Eagles rallied with a strong second half and topped Tuckahoe

Anthony LeStrange goes up for a shot against Tuckahoe on Jan. 19.

Michael Zeolla attempts a shot in traffic. Photos/Mike Smith

Joe Michalski challenges a shot attempt by Tuckahoe’s Malik MooreCrooks on Jan. 19. Moore-Crooks had 33 points in a losing effort.

72-58 to win the annual Augie Nardone Scholarship Game. Eastchester used its deep bench liberally throughout the game, employing a high-pressure defense to force Tuckahoe turnovers and turn what had been a 34-28 halftime lead into a rout as the Tigers tired late. Sean Donnellan and Grant DelVecchio led the way for the home team, posting 13 points each on a day defined by a balanced offensive effort. According to Donnellan, the quick pace of the game benefitted the Eagles down the stretch. “We’re able to sub guys in quickly,” said the junior guard. “We get them in quick and we just keep up the on-ball pressure and that allows us to run a lot.” The Eagles’ late run spoiled an otherwise terrific performance by Tuckahoe standout Malik Moore-Crooks, who finished with 33 of his team’s 58 points on the night. In the first half alone, Moore-Crooks poured in 20 of his squad’s 28 total points. Coming into the game, Donnellan and his Eastchester teammates knew that stopping the junior would be a tall order, and game-planned accordingly. “We knew he was their main guy,” Donnellan said. “So basically we just wanted to deny him

Sean Donnellan brings the ball up the floor against Tuckahoe. Donnellan had 13 points for the Eagles.

the ball and force their other guys to make plays.” The Tigers will look to bounce back from the loss when they travel to Alexander Hamilton High School on Jan. 26, while the Eagle’s have a Jan. 23 showdown with Ardsley looming. Friday’s win was an important one for the Eagles, who have struggled somewhat this season, and improved the team’s record to 5-9 on the year. With a grueling

stretch that sees Eastchester take on a number of league foes coming up, Donnellan is hoping that the excitement from Friday’s win can help build momentum as the team gears up for a playoff push. “It’s definitely a different type of atmosphere,” he said. “When we play [Tuckahoe] you see both towns really come out for the game, and it makes it a lot of fun.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

16 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • January 26, 2018

SPORTS

New Ro takes 2nd at Counties

New Rochelle’s Jake Logan tangles with a wrestler from John Jay at the Westchester County Championships on Jan. 20. Logan won the 182-pound title.

A Mamaroneck wrestler sizes up a White Plains opponent on Jan. 20.

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor The area’s top high school wrestlers descended on Yonkers Middle High School on Jan. 20 to compete in the annual Westchester County Championships, and while Fox Lane may have taken top team honors, a number of local teams—and athletes—also shined on the county’s biggest

stage. As teams look ahead to the upcoming postseason schedule, last weekend’s event should serve as a good measuring stick for the road ahead. With three champions and five finalists, the Foxes amassed 196 points on the day, creating some separation between themselves and second-place finisher New Rochelle, which tallied 140 points. But despite falling short of a coun-

ty title, Huguenot head coach Eddie Ortiz was enthusiastic about his charges’ performances. “I was very pleased with the way we wrestled, this may have been our best tournament of the year,” he said. “Especially because we ran into a few losses early on and guys had to battle through wrestle-backs and they did a great job.” The Huguenots’ lone champi-

Harrison’s Zach Finn competes at the Westchester County Championships. Finn placed third in the 182-pound bracket. Photos/Mike Smith

on on the day was junior Jake Logan, the top-ranked 182-pounder in Section I. For the second time in two weeks, Logan earned a victory over second-ranked Jacob Ferreira from Horace Greeley, topping him 3-1 in the finals. At the Eastern States meet on Jan. 13, Logan edged Ferreira with a 5-4 victory. “[Jake] has been winning so many matches with pinfalls this year, that match at the Eastern States was really the first time he had to go a full six minutes,” Ortiz said. “But he looked more dominant [on Saturday]; you could tell that his stamina had increased and he was wrestling with a lot more confidence.” Logan was the only Huguenot wrestler to reach the finals, although Kobe Simpson (126 pounds) and Aidan Lilly (220) both advanced to the semis. Other area schools in attendance included Mamaroneck, led by 145-pound runner-up Crew Fullerton, which finished in eighth place; 14th place Eastchester, who saw Steven Bilali claim the 170-pound championship; and Harrison, led by 113-pound champ Tyler Joseph, which placed 17th. Rye finished 22nd and was led by Chase Bekkerus, who fell to Bilali in the 170-pound semis. But New Rochelle’s second place finish might be even more impressive given the tumultuous

An Eastchester wrestler locks up with a Yorktown grappler on Jan. 20.

week in the school district leading up to the county meet. On Jan. 10, a New Rochelle High School student was stabbed to death at the North Avenue Dunkin Donuts, and an escalation after another off-campus assault on Jan. 17 led to an in-school stabbing the following day. Ortiz said that he is happy that athletics can provide New Rochelle students with some level of routine in a trying time and was proud of the mental toughness displayed by his athletes

over the last few days. “It has been a tough week for everyone, and I think the kids just tried to go to practice, work hard, because for those two hours a day, they can forget about the other stuff that’s happening, be it problems in school or problems at home,” he said. “I know the New Rochelle community is going to come together, and for the athletes, this is the best thing they can be doing in a challenging time.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com